Right-side seats provide superior views for both segments: the Missouri River's dramatic meanders during departure and continued sightings of the Des Plaines River valley and Chicago's western approach during descent. The right side captures more of the flight's geographic narrative.
Flown OMA to MDW? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Omaha to Chicago is 422 miles (679 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The flight path crosses central Illinois, passing east of the Illinois River valley. Notable features include the transition from Iowa's rolling terrain to Illinois's flatter agricultural landscape, with scattered lakes and reservoirs visible around the 30-minute mark. The Kankakee River drainage becomes visible in the final 20 minutes as you approach the Chicago metropolitan area's western edge.
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from OMA
RIGHTRight-side seats capture the Missouri River's distinctive meanders as you climb northeast from Eppley. The river's oxbow bends are clearly visible from 5,000-10,000 feet and provide excellent geographic reference points during the initial climb.
Landing at MDW
LEFTLeft-side seats offer the best view during approach to Midway's primary runways (31L/31R). You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and the Des Plaines River as you descend over the southwest side of the city.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Eppley Afld (OMA) to Chicago Midway International (MDW)?
Sit on the Right side of the plane for the best views on flights from Omaha to Chicago. Right-side seats provide superior views for both segments: the Missouri River's dramatic meanders during departure and continued sightings of the Des Plaines River valley and Chicago's western approach during descent. The right side captures more of the flight's geographic narrative.
What can I see during takeoff from Eppley Afld in Omaha?
During takeoff from Eppley Afld (OMA), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right-side seats capture the Missouri River's distinctive meanders as you climb northeast from Eppley. The river's oxbow bends are clearly visible from 5,000-10,000 feet and provide excellent geographic reference points during the initial climb. Notable sights include: Missouri River with visible meanders, Omaha metropolitan area sprawl to the south, Papillion Creek drainage patterns, Council Bluffs Iowa across the river to the east.
What can I see when landing at Chicago Midway International in Chicago?
When landing at Chicago Midway International (MDW), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left-side seats offer the best view during approach to Midway's primary runways (31L/31R). You'll see Lake Michigan's shoreline, the Chicago skyline, and the Des Plaines River as you descend over the southwest side of the city. Notable sights include: Lake Michigan's shoreline and breakwaters, Chicago downtown skyline and Willis Tower, Des Plaines River valley, Midway's runways and surrounding neighborhoods.
How long is the flight from Omaha to Chicago?
The flight from Eppley Afld (OMA) to Chicago Midway International (MDW) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 422 miles (679 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Omaha to Chicago flight path pass over?
The flight path crosses central Illinois, passing east of the Illinois River valley. Notable features include the transition from Iowa's rolling terrain to Illinois's flatter agricultural landscape, with scattered lakes and reservoirs visible around the 30-minute mark. The Kankakee River drainage becomes visible in the final 20 minutes as you approach the Chicago metropolitan area's western edge.